Reuben Vs Corned Beef Special: The Ultimate Taste Test
What To Know
- According to legend, Reuben invented the sandwich in 1914 as a late-night snack for a drunken actress who couldn’t decide between a corned beef sandwich and a Swiss cheese sandwich.
- The Reuben sandwich has a satisfying crunch from the rye bread and sauerkraut, while the corned beef and Swiss cheese provide a tender and juicy contrast.
- The Corned Beef Special has a softer texture overall, with the rye bread providing a slight chewiness and the corned beef being more tender than in the Reuben.
When it comes to mouthwatering sandwiches, the Reuben and Corned Beef Special stand as iconic contenders, each boasting a unique blend of flavors and textures that have captivated sandwich enthusiasts for generations. This blog post delves into the fascinating world of these culinary wonders, exploring their differences and similarities, and ultimately guiding you in choosing the perfect sandwich for your taste buds.
Historical Origins
Reuben Sandwich
The Reuben sandwich traces its roots back to the early 20th century in New York City. Its creation is attributed to Arnold Reuben, the owner of the Reuben’s Delicatessen. According to legend, Reuben invented the sandwich in 1914 as a late-night snack for a drunken actress who couldn’t decide between a corned beef sandwich and a Swiss cheese sandwich.
Corned Beef Special
The origins of the Corned Beef Special are less clear, but it is believed to have emerged in the mid-20th century in Jewish delis and restaurants across the United States. It quickly gained popularity as a hearty and flavorful alternative to the classic Reuben sandwich.
Key Ingredients
Reuben Sandwich
- Rye bread
- Corned beef
- Swiss cheese
- Sauerkraut
- Thousand Island dressing
Corned Beef Special
- Rye bread
- Corned beef
- Russian dressing
- Coleslaw
Flavor Profiles
Reuben Sandwich
The Reuben sandwich is a symphony of tangy and savory flavors. The rye bread provides a slightly sour base, while the corned beef adds a salty and smoky richness. Swiss cheese melts into a gooey, nutty layer, and the sourkraut adds a tangy crunch. Thousand Island dressing ties all the elements together with its sweet and tangy mayonnaise base.
Corned Beef Special
The Corned Beef Special offers a more robust and earthy flavor profile. The rye bread again provides a solid foundation, and the corned beef remains the star of the show. Russian dressing, with its spicy and tangy mustard base, adds a bolder kick than Thousand Island dressing. Coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast with its creamy and tangy mayonnaise dressing and crunchy cabbage.
Texture
Reuben Sandwich
The Reuben sandwich has a satisfying crunch from the rye bread and sauerkraut, while the corned beef and Swiss cheese provide a tender and juicy contrast.
Corned Beef Special
The Corned Beef Special has a softer texture overall, with the rye bread providing a slight chewiness and the corned beef being more tender than in the Reuben. The coleslaw adds a crisp and refreshing element.
Which Sandwich to Choose?
The choice between a Reuben and a Corned Beef Special ultimately depends on your personal preferences. If you enjoy a tangy and savory flavor profile with a satisfying crunch, the Reuben sandwich is an excellent option. If you prefer a bolder, more earthy flavor with a softer texture, the Corned Beef Special is the way to go.
Variations of the Reuben and Corned Beef Special
Over the years, both the Reuben and Corned Beef Special have spawned numerous variations. Some popular variations include:
Reuben Sandwich Variations
- Rachel Sandwich: Substitutes turkey for corned beef
- Monte Cristo Sandwich: Dipped in egg batter and fried
Corned Beef Special Variations
- Reuben Special: Adds Swiss cheese to the Corned Beef Special
- Russian Reuben Sandwich: Uses Russian dressing instead of Thousand Island dressing
Key Points: The Ultimate Delicacy
Whether you choose the tangy and savory Reuben sandwich or the bold and earthy Corned Beef Special, you’re in for a culinary treat. These iconic sandwiches have stood the test of time for a reason, and they continue to delight sandwich enthusiasts around the world.
What You Need to Know
Q: Which sandwich has a sweeter dressing?
A: The Reuben sandwich has Thousand Island dressing, which is sweeter than the Russian dressing used on the Corned Beef Special.
Q: Which sandwich is more popular?
A: The Reuben sandwich is generally considered more popular, but both sandwiches have their devoted fans.
Q: Can I make these sandwiches at home?
A: Yes, both the Reuben and Corned Beef Special can be easily made at home with a few simple ingredients.